Blog 4 : Tips and Hints

When Reading text is difficult

Many learners when under stress or tiredness suffer from word blindness. When you have dyslexia it is a constant challenge to read effectively. In my case the words merge and when this happens I cannot find my way through the text, without looking away and re-focusing. I often misinterpret the meaning of a sentence.

Lists and college registers are my greatest challenge, unless I have created them myself. When I create a document I break down the page using charts or text boxes. I also change the background colour or font size in each box. As often as possible will use photograph images particularly on web pages or power point.

There is unfortunately no definitive solution or answer to this common dyslexia challenge. Although through the aid of technology we can improve and adapt reading material.

Repeat reading of the written text helps improve reasoning and understanding of a sentence, double spacing of the text, can also assist with improving clarity and as a consequence will help with reading.

Try double spacing your work you may find it easier to read.

To Double Space Highlight your work - Press Ctrl and A together and then Press Ctrl and 2 together. Your work should now be double spaced.

To Reverse Double Spacing: Press Ctrl and A together and then Press Ctrl and 1 together. Your work should now be single spaced again.

How to formally request for an assignment or document template, from your tutor or employer. When ever possible make the initial request verbally.

Follow this with an email. Start the email as follows:

Dear xxx

Following on from our recent discussion with regard to my need for further information regarding your assignment ---------------assignment title here.

I am really interested in the subject, however I am struggling to know where or how to make a start with the assigment.

And then add one of the numbered statements below.

Conclude with: Please let me know if you can help me with this matter.

Thank You for your time.

Best Wishes

Your Name

Always whenever possible email your teacher, headmaster, school, employer or college. (Save the email as evidence of your request).

1, Could you please provide me with a template (electronic format preferred) as I am unfamiliar with the format you are asking for.

2, Could you please provide me with a suggested structure (electronic format preferred) for the assignment as I am unfamiliar with the format you are asking for.

3, Would it be possible for you to let me see a sample assignment as I am unfamiliar with the format you are asking for.

4, Would it be possible for you to provide me with an electronic copy of the classroom notes and power point slides.

Having a reader is an obvious advantage.

Clearly the quickest and most accurate solution to reading problems is to have a reading buddy.

A reader is a great when we are young and for exam or test purposes. However an adult asking someone to read for them hardly inspires confidence.

We need to be smart about who, when and how we ask for reading assistance.

With an electronic copy of reading material, it is possible to alter or edit the text to suit our own individual requirements.

With an electronic copy we can change the font, size, colour and double space.

+

aa